Lead Auditor - Forest & Palm Oil

Position Overview

The Forest & Palm Oil Auditor is responsible for conducting comprehensive audits and verifications of forest management practices and palm oil production facilities to ensure compliance with international sustainability standards and certification requirements. This role requires extensive field experience, technical expertise, and strong communication skills to assess environmental, social, and governance (ESG) compliance across supply chains.

Primary Responsibilities

• Conduct on-site audits of forest operations and palm oil plantations according to established audit protocols and international standards (FSC, RSPO, ISO 14001, etc.)
• Verify compliance with environmental regulations, labor standards, and sustainability requirements
• Collect and document evidence through field observations, interviews, and record reviews
• Prepare comprehensive audit reports with findings, non-conformances, and recommendations
• Communicate audit objectives, scope, and procedures to client representatives prior to audit commencement
• Conduct exit meetings to present preliminary findings and discuss corrective action requirements
• Respond professionally to client inquiries and provide technical clarifications
• Maintain professional relationships with auditees and stakeholders
• Prepare detailed audit reports within established timelines
• Document non-conformances with clear evidence and references to applicable standards
• Record audit observations, photos, and supporting materials
• Maintain accurate audit files and ensure compliance with data protection requirements
• Adhere to Bureau Veritas audit protocols and quality standards
• Comply with certification scheme requirements and regulatory obligations
• Follow health, safety, and environmental procedures during field audits
• Maintain professional integrity and impartiality throughout audit process
• Participate in training programs to maintain and enhance technical competencies
• Stay updated on changes in sustainability standards and certification requirements
• Provide feedback on audit methodologies and process improvements
• Contribute to knowledge sharing within the audit team

Required Qualifications

Education & Certifications

• Bachelor's degree in Forestry, Agriculture, Environmental Science, or related field
• Valid Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) Auditor Certification or Roundtable on Sustainable Palm Oil (RSPO) Auditor Certification
• ISO 14001 Lead Auditor Certification (preferred)
• Valid driver's license for field travel

Experience

• Minimum 3 years of professional experience in forest management, palm oil operations, or agricultural auditing
• Proven experience conducting sustainability or environmental audits
• Demonstrated field experience in tropical forest or plantation environments
• Knowledge of international sustainability standards (FSC, RSPO, PEFC)

Technical Knowledge

• Strong understanding of forest management practices and palm oil production processes
• Knowledge of environmental regulations and sustainability requirements
• Familiarity with ISO 14001 Environmental Management Systems
• Understanding of social and labor compliance standards

Essential Competencies

• Technical Expertise - Deep knowledge of forestry and palm oil industry practices and standards
• Attention to Detail - Ability to identify non-conformances and document findings accurately
• Communication Skills - Clear written and verbal communication in English (additional languages an asset)
• Field Operations - Comfortable working in remote locations and challenging environmental conditions
• Analytical Thinking - Ability to assess complex sustainability issues and provide recommendations
• Professional Integrity - Maintains impartiality and objectivity in all audit activities
• Time Management - Ability to manage multiple audits and meet reporting deadlines
• Adaptability - Flexible approach to working in diverse organizational and cultural environments

Physical Requirements

• Ability to work in outdoor field conditions (tropical climate, varying terrain)
• Capability to walk extended distances and climb when necessary
• Ability to lift and carry audit equipment and materials
• Valid health and fitness for remote field work
• Willingness to travel domestically and internationally (up to 50% of time)

Compensation & Benefits

• Competitive salary commensurate with experience
• Performance-based incentives
• Health insurance and medical benefits
• Professional development and training opportunities
• Travel allowances and per diem
• Pension/retirement benefits (as per local regulations)